How to find NGC2542 using Leo

This guide uses bright stars first, then narrows the field for a telescope or binocular finder. Use Leo as the main sky landmark.

Follow the route from one recognizable star to the next until you reach NGC2542.

NGC2542 is 25° above the horizon toward the southeast.

Begin with Leo, then follow the reference stars toward NGC2542.

Leo

Recognize the characteristic star pattern of Leo before following the route.

Identify Alphard in or near Leo; the chart shows its position relative to the guide.

From Alphard, move about 4.4° toward the west until you reach HYG 44961.0.

From HYG 44961.0, move about 6.2° toward the west until you reach HYG 43035.0.

From HYG 43035.0, move about 7° toward the west until you reach HYG 40693.0.

From HYG 40693.0, move about 1.8° toward the west until you reach NGC2542. This is the target field.